Elaine Mariner, who for the past eight years has directed the Colorado Creative Industries division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development, has become the cultural and arts director for the town of Parker.

She will oversee Parker’s cultural facilities including the Parker Arts, Culture and Events Center (PACE), the Mainstreet Center, Ruth Memorial Chapel and the town’s historic structures. In addition, she will handle the public art program and collection and develop and implement Parker’s new Creative District.

Elaine Mariner

“We are pleased to have a candidate of Elaine’s caliber join our team,” said Town Administrator Randy Young. “She is a well-known member of the arts community, as well as an active arts advocate, and we look forward to the excitement she will bring to arts and culture in Parker.”

Mariner holds a bachelor of science degree in computer information systems from George Mason University and an MBA in marketing from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

In addition to the Colorado Creative Industries Division, Mariner has also held positions with the Massachusetts Cultural Council; Arts Communications, Inc. in Denver; and the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.

Back to bijoux

Steve Rosdal, former owner of Hyde Park Jewelers, is back in the jewelry business. SHR Jewelry Associates, specializing in diamond acquisitions from both private individuals and dealers, is now open by appointment at 231 Milwaukee St. in Cherry Creek North.

Denver area fashion companies put their most stylish feet forward Saturday for Fashion Group International of Denver’s biannial Rising Star Awards.
Braving a trip to the suburbs FGI members, friends and family members gathered at the relatively new venue District 475, which was a perfect setting for a reception and show. In the Inverness Main Street development, District 475 has an open, warehouse-y feel. There was clever art on the walls, sofas for lounging, spots for photo ops, bars, and high-top tables for parking a drink and plate while you mingled. The runway and backstage area accommodated what event co-chair Carol Engel Enright said was a crowd of about 350 who came out to toast the 13 companies being recognized.Read more…